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Whether you commute to class from a dorm, apartment or Greek house, there are various forms of transportation to help you out.
You have every right to be the person, beginner skills and all, riding their skateboard around the University of Idaho’s hilly campus as a rite of passage.
However, if you’re someone who doesn’t enjoy publicly embarrassing themselves, read this guide to help save yourself bumps and bruises.
Walk
Not always the popular option, but all campus living areas are within walking distance to the library, dining hall, recreational center and other services. Most off-campus apartments are within walking distance as well, that is if you don’t mind a 20 to 40 minute walk. You can do it alone or with friends.
Bike
When you’re headed across campus, bicycling is a convenient, inexpensive and healthy transportation option. If you get a flat tire, air stations are available on campus in front of the Steam Plant on the corner of Sixth and Line streets. And always make sure to protect your bike with appropriate locks.
Skateboard
As I hinted at before, skate boarding’s not the safest way to get to class. If you’re experienced, however, it’s a compact method that can save you a lot of hassle. You can even buy remote-controlled electric skateboards that require less effort.
Ski
Any veteran of a Moscow winter can tell you they’ve seen someone ski to class. This could be you! According to U.S. Climate Data, our small-town averages 49 inches of snow per year — just enough to warrant dusting off your poles in the winter and heading to a lecture.
Bus
If you live off campus and are looking for a cheap way to get to class, I highly recommend taking the bus. SMART Transit’s Moscow Fixed Route is a free bus service available for students and residents alike. SMART Transit currently operates on two loops, the West Route and the East Route, and are considering adding a new route to run through southeast Moscow. The routes cover a range of locations including shopping, medical, educational and high-density living areas. No matter where you need to go, SMART Transit can help get you there.
Car
Everyone likes the convenience of driving their car to campus, we get it. However, having a car on campus can come with some extra expenses –— parking lots often fill up fast. Check out UI’s Parking Map or their Student Permits page to see if it’s the right fit for you.
Alternatives
If you have mobility-limiting disabilities, Vandal Access Services is here to help. The Vandal Access Service provides UI students and employees with equal access to facilities and programs on campus. The rides are pre-scheduled based on your class or work schedule, so forms must be submitted in advance.
Angela Palermo can be reached at [email protected] or on Twitter @apalermooo